A GROUP of volunteers have been honoured with the Queen's Award for voluntary service.

Members of the Bedale Riding for the Disabled Association Group were invited to Buckingham Palace to receive their award from the Queen.

Representing, Claire Pope and Doreen Longstaff of the Bedale RDA, attended the well-known and well-respected garden party on Tuesday, May 21.

The pair joined other recipients of the same award, from across the country.

Based at the Saddle Club in Catterick Garrison, sessions each Thursday morning are run for around 15 riders.

The sessions provide therapy, fun and social activities through the riding of horses.

Julia Hamby of the Bedale Riding for the Disabled Association Group said: "As the Chair of the Bedale RDA Group, I am absolutely delighted that the group have been given this award to recognise the hard work and commitment of the volunteers, without whom the group would not exist.

" I cannot thank them enough for continuing to turn up every week and contribute to these valuable riding therapy sessions and for being such a happy bunch of people as well."